AST – Definition & Meaning

AST, or the abbreviation for “aspartate aminotransferase,” is an enzyme found in the liver, heart, skeletal muscles, and other organs. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the metabolism of amino acids and is used as a diagnostic tool in the medical field. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of AST, its origin, and its associations.

Definitions

AST, also known as serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), is an enzyme that helps to convert aspartate into glutamate. This process is essential for the metabolism of amino acids and is necessary for the proper functioning of the body.

Origin

The discovery of AST dates back to the early 1950s. It was first identified by Leonell C. Strong and his colleagues, who were studying the metabolism of amino acids in the liver. They found that AST was present in high concentrations in the liver and other organs, and that it played a critical role in the metabolism of amino acids.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, AST is defined as “an enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of an amino group from aspartic acid to alpha-ketoglutaric acid, forming oxaloacetic acid and glutamic acid.”

In the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, AST is defined as “an enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of an amino group from aspartic acid to alpha-ketoglutaric acid, producing oxaloacetic acid and glutamic acid.”

Associations

AST is often used as a diagnostic tool in the medical field. Elevated levels of AST in the blood can indicate liver damage or disease, heart attack, or muscle damage. It is also used to monitor the effectiveness of certain medications and treatments.

Synonyms

Some synonyms for AST include serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), aspartate transaminase, and glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT).

Antonyms

There are no antonyms for AST as it is a specific enzyme.

The same root words

AST is derived from the words aspartate and aminotransferase.

Example Sentences

1. The doctor ordered a blood test to check the patient’s AST levels.
2. Elevated AST levels can indicate liver damage or disease.
3. The medication the patient is taking can affect their AST levels.
4. The nurse drew blood to check the patient’s AST and ALT levels.
5. The doctor explained that AST is an enzyme that plays a critical role in the metabolism of amino acids.